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Vitamin C and Skin Regeneration: New Research Reveals How It Thickens Skin via Epigenetic Changes
Paula Gallagher on
We’ve long known that Vitamin C is a skincare powerhouse—famous for its antioxidant protection and its role in collagen production. But emerging research reveals that this essential nutrient does even more than brighten your complexion or neutralize free radicals. It may actually rebuild your skin from the inside out by influencing how skin cells grow and regenerate—through a genetic mechanism called DNA demethylation.
The New Science: How Vitamin C Stimulates Skin Regrowth at the Genetic Level
A recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that Vitamin C helps thicken aging or thinning skin by activating key genes involved in keratinocyte proliferation—the cells that make up the outermost layer of your skin. This occurs via epigenetic changes, specifically DNA demethylation, which essentially “turns on” skin-rebuilding genes.
“Vitamin C helps thicken the skin by encouraging keratinocyte proliferation through DNA demethylation, making it a promising treatment for thinning skin, especially in older adults.”
— Dr. Akihito Ishigami, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology
Inside the Study: Vitamin C and Skin Cell Proliferation
Using a lab-grown model of human skin, researchers exposed skin cells to Vitamin C at levels comparable to those found in the bloodstream. After 7–14 days, they observed:
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Thicker epidermal layers, indicating increased cell proliferation
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Thinner stratum corneum, suggesting faster cell turnover
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More actively dividing skin cells, marked by the proliferation marker Ki-67
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Increased activity in over a dozen genes tied to skin renewal
What Made These Changes Happen?
The secret lies in TET enzymes—cellular tools that remove methyl groups from DNA. This reactivates genes that support skin regeneration. Vitamin C powers this process by:
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Donating electrons to maintain TET enzyme activity
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Recharging iron ions (Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺) needed for the demethylation cycle
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Supporting expression of over 10,000 skin-regenerating DNA regions
What Is DNA Demethylation and Why It Matters
Think of DNA methylation as a light switch that turns certain genes off. When methyl groups are removed, the switch flips on, allowing genes involved in cell growth, repair, and renewal to activate.
Vitamin C helps this process by:
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Supporting epigenetic reprogramming
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Activating proliferation-related genes in skin cells
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Promoting thicker, stronger skin from within
This study identified over 10,000 regions of DNA that were demethylated after Vitamin C treatment—many of which were directly related to skin cell growth.
Why This Matters for Your Skin Health
If you’re experiencing:
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Thinning or fragile skin with age
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Skin damage from sun exposure
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Slower cell turnover and dull texture
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Interest in longevity-focused skincare
Then this study suggests that Vitamin C isn’t just protective—it’s regenerative. It works on a genetic level to reawaken the skin’s natural capacity to rebuild.
How to Support Skin Regeneration with Vitamin C
To optimize your skin's health and regeneration:
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Oral supplementation - Choose buffered Vitamin C or liposomal forms for better absorption
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Topical Vitamin C serums - Apply daily to support collagen synthesis and skin clarity
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Synergistic nutrients - combine with zinc, bioflavonoids, and other antioxidants for enhanced results
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Eat Vitamin C–rich foods - Strawberries, bell peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli
Vitamin C has always been a cornerstone of skincare, but we now know it also activates the genes that help your skin regenerate from within. Through the power of epigenetics, it strengthens and rebuilds, offering a science-backed path to healthier, younger-looking skin.
Support Skin Health from Within
If you're struggling with thinning skin, slow regeneration, or just want to build a more resilient skin barrier, our integrative nutritionists and wellness experts are here to help.
→ Book a personalized consultation to discover what your skin really needs—inside and out.
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Liposomal C
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Vitamin C plays numerous roles in our body but it primarily acts as an antioxidant, an electron donor that neutralizes free radicals and promotes healthy oxidative stress response. This, in turn, supports healthy cellular energy production which has a ripple effect on multiple systems within the body.
The liposomal technology used to formulate Liposomal C gives it superior bioavailability and makes it easier than ever to obtain this critical antioxidant. In traditional forms of supplemental vitamin C, bioavailability is limited by how much the intestines and kidneys can absorb. Liposomal C goes straight into the bloodstream where it can quickly and effectively be absorbed.
Additional benefits include:
Supporting healthy oxidative stress response
Promoting healthy immune function
Promoting healthy nervous system function
Supporting collagen synthesis
Promoting healthy cognitive function
Supporting neuronal integrity
Supporting healthy cortisol balance
Recommendations:Shake well. Take one teaspoon (5 mL) daily or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.
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